Read the Real Me

Read the Real Me

To know the real me
takes time, my friend.
You see, I hide myself
behind painted smiles
and phony laughter.

What you see is not
who I am; so you must
look deeper if you care enough
to want to know me,
to see through to my heart.

I struggle each day
to get out of bed,
to face another day
of overcoming obstacles.
Victories are few and far between.

My writing keeps me sane.
It keeps me honest with those
who take the time to read
the truth that I write.
My written words tell the tale.

So, if you want to know me,
read what I write.
Read slowly and absorb
the words that paint
the picture of my soul.

Pat Nelson
December 28, 2008